Belgium, nestled in the heart of Europe, is a prime destination renowned for its medieval towns, Renaissance architecture, and its role as the headquarters of the European Union and NATO. The country attracts a diverse range of travelers, from business professionals attending conferences to leisure travelers exploring its cultural and historical gems. As a Schengen Area member, Belgium implements visa-free entry policies for numerous countries, making it an attractive destination for both short-term business trips and extended leisure stays. These policies contribute to the influx of holidaymakers eager to experience Belgium’s vibrant cities and picturesque countryside, as well as corporate travelers attending events and conventions. This article delves into the details of these policies, categorized by region, along with authentic citations and the footfall from each nation, showcasing how Belgium continues to strengthen its tourism industry through strategic visa-free entry agreements.
Citizens of Schengen Area countries enjoy visa-free entry to Belgium, facilitating seamless travel across member states. In 2022, the largest numbers of tourists from Schengen countries visiting Belgium came from France (2.5 million), the Netherlands (1.9 million), and Germany (1.2 million).
EU/EEA countries not part of the Schengen Area also benefit from visa-free travel to Belgium. In 2022, Belgium welcomed approximately 350,000 tourists from Ireland, and 200,000 from Romania.
Belgium extends visa-free entry to citizens of several non-Schengen countries, fostering greater tourism diversity. The most significant numbers of tourists from visa-exempt non-Schengen countries in 2022 were from the United States (1.1 million), the United Kingdom (900,000), and Canada (500,000).
Belgium has bilateral agreements that grant visa-free entry to certain countries not widely exempted by general EU policies. In 2022, Belgium saw significant arrivals from Japan (200,000) and South Korea (150,000), benefiting from these specific agreements.
In total, Belgium welcomed approximately 12 million international tourists from visa-free countries in 2022.
Belgium is steeped in history and culture, boasting UNESCO World Heritage sites, medieval towns, and Renaissance architecture. The country is renowned for its culinary offerings, from decadent chocolates to world-famous beers and hearty dishes. Belgium’s central location in Europe makes it a convenient starting point for exploring the continent. Belgium hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating everything from music and arts to food and history.
Belgium’s visa-free entry policies significantly boost its tourism industry by simplifying travel for millions of visitors annually. These policies, combined with Belgium’s rich cultural offerings and strategic location in Europe, make it an attractive destination for tourists from across the globe. The ease of entry for Schengen countries, EU/EEA members, and many non-Schengen nations continues to drive Belgium’s tourism success.
